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Environmental disaster looms as Russian shadow ship leaks 800,000 barrels of oil into Arabian Sea
kyivindependent.com • • world
Key Points:
- A Cameroon-flagged tanker, Caroline Bezengi, linked to Russia's shadow fleet, has been leaking oil into a marine protected area off Oman's coast since late July, risking severe ecological damage.
- Omani authorities have initiated a comprehensive response to contain the spill, including plugging holes, stabilizing the vessel, and conducting underwater inspections to protect marine life and navigation.
- The tanker, sanctioned by multiple Western countries for helping Russia evade sanctions, was stranded near Al-Qibliyyah Island after explosions in early June and is estimated to have leaked between 390 to 600 square kilometers of oil slick.
- Environmental groups like Greenpeace highlight the spill's threat to endangered species such as sea turtles, seabirds, and the Arabian Sea humpback whale, noting a rapid increase in the affected area due to the vessel's deteriorating condition.
- European officials emphasize the environmental hazards posed by shadow fleet vessels, citing poor safety and maintenance standards that endanger both ecosystems and maritime traffic.
